Ross Robertson

A school and houses were evacuated and a controlled explosion was carried out after a suspicious package was found near a school's grounds.

The bomb squad was called out to deal with the item, but after further enquiries it is not believed the item was of any risk.

The incident happened in Gladstone Terrace in the Bensham area of Gateshead.

Assistant Chief Constable Debbie Ford thanked those involved for their cooperation and patience.

She said: "Thank you to all affected by today's activity. The public's safety is our priority and we were right to take this level of precaution and I thank everyone for their cooperation. We ask that the public do remain vigilant and any one with any concerns of suspicious activity should report it to police."

Assistant Chief Constable Debbie Ford has thanked those affected for their cooperation and patience.

She said: "Thank you to all affected by today's activity. The public's safety is our priority and we were right to take this level of precaution and I thank everyone for their cooperation. We ask that the public do remain vigilant and any one with any concerns of suspicious activity should report it to police."